Avenue Acupuncture FAQs

TCM views back pain, whether acute or chronic, as being caused by a blockage of well oxygenated blood flow to the area (qi and blood stagnation), which leaves the tissues undernourished and in pain. This can be treated with acupuncture, Tuina massage, cupping, or guasha.

Treatment varies by cause and can include hot or cold packs, continued activity while avoiding bed rest, strengthening exercises and physical therapy, over the counter or prescription medication, and surgery for cases where other therapies fail or serious nerve compression is present.

Common causes include sprains and strains, traumatic injury, intervertebral disc degeneration, herniated or ruptured discs, sciatica, and skeletal irregularities like lordosis or scoliosis. Occasionally back pain can be caused by more serious conditions such as infections, tumors, or kidney stones, which is why a proper assessment is important.

Back pain and other back problems are among the most chronic conditions in Canada. About 80% of people will suffer from low back pain during their life, and although half of cases resolve in 4-8 weeks, 85% of people will have it multiple times.